Location: Mosquito and Fly Research
Project Number: 6036-32000-052-109-I
Project Type: Interagency Reimbursable Agreement
Start Date: Jan 3, 2024
End Date: Sep 30, 2024
Objective:
1. Determine the bite-protection character of novel potassium channel blockers alone and in combination with pyrethroids in pyrethroid-susceptible mosquitoes.
2. Determine the bite-protection character of novel potassium channel blockers alone and in combination with pyrethroids in pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes.
3. Assess the persistence of potassium channel blockers on military fabrics.
Approach:
Polyunsaturated long-chain fatty acids have been shown to act on potassium channels and are capable of blocking and modulating the physiology of insect neurons. As potassium channels are involved in the hyperpolarization (inactivation of nerve) after sodium channels are activated (a consequence of pyrethroids), these channels are promising targets for synergizing pyrethroids. This is particularly relevant to our proposal and the US military, as many common food or cosmetic ingredients are capable of blocking insect potassium channels. Therefore, it may be possible to synergize current pyrethroid-treated fabrics with commonly available food and cosmetic ingredients, offering a unique opportunity to improve pyrethroid-treated fabric repellency without onerous regulatory approval from various agencies. The central objective is to screen select potassium channel blockers that improve the long-lasting protective characteristics against biting pests of already available military fabrics.
